Could Maitland be the answer for the Jets? This mayor thinks so
The Newcastle Jets and Venues NSW are currently in dispute over a significant security bond required to hire McDonald Jones Stadium. Mayor Philip Penfold suggests that an upgraded Maitland Sportsground might serve as a new home for the club.
Conflict over stadium bond
The Jets face demands to pay a $300,000 up-front security bond for this season at McDonald Jones Stadium, according to Venues NSW, the NSW government agency managing several state stadiums. Venues NSW has warned that without a payment of $250,000 by next Wednesday, they will take action to protect their interests.
Jets' financial background and current proposals
- The Jets, now under new ownership, reportedly agreed to pay the $300,000 bond last year due to prior payment issues under previous owners.
- Outstanding debts from the past have been cleared by the new management.
- The club is seeking financial stability and has proposed what they consider a fairer bond arrangement this season.
- They offered to pay for two home games in advance, but this was rejected by Venues NSW.
Current stadium situation and future considerations
With 13 home games scheduled at McDonald Jones Stadium, which seats 30,000 spectators, the Jets currently have no alternative venue in the region. This ongoing dispute underscores the pressing need for a smaller stadium with a capacity of 10,000 to 12,000 seats to be constructed nearby.
"The Newcastle Jets and Venues NSW were at loggerheads over a $300,000 up-front bond to hire the stadium this season."
"At the moment, there is nowhere else in the region for the Jets men to play other than McDonald Jones Stadium."
Author's summary: The dispute over a large security bond highlights the Jets' financial challenges and the urgent need for a mid-sized stadium in the region to secure the club's future.